Pulmonaria provides cool spots of color

Exult in the pulmonaria. The colorful spring show of this outstanding herbaceous perennial continues well into June.

The species originated in Central Europe, but it was discovered in Russia and Asia. In medieval times it was thought that the spotted leaves resembled diseased lungs. Early herbalists made potions to treat bronchial problems with them, which probably did not cure but fortunately did not kill the recipient. Sadly, the common name lungwort is a result of the former practices. Do not be put off by the moniker. This is a beautiful plant that deserves a far better name.

Pulmonaria has journeyed successfully to our country and performs reliably in zones 4 through 8, although it will not tolerate dry shade or heavy clay that has not been well amended. It is happiest in cool shade and rich loamy soil. When given these conditions it will reward you by being long-lived, deer- and pest-resistant. What more could we ask of our plants?

The beauty of pulmonaria is not just in its wonderful flower color but also in the remarkable foliage that is left behind after the flowers have finished their performance. Depending on the variety, the low-growing leaves can be spotted, green, silvery, lance shaped, oval or ruffled. The foliage is covered by silky hairs, and the plant spreads by rhizomes, creating a lovely mound that reaches 16 to 24 inches at maturity.

Deadhead the flowers when they have faded. Pulmonarias are notorious self-seeders. The resulting seedlings most often are not true to their parentage. The only reliable method of duplication is by division in spring or fall. Just lift the whole mound and carefully break off a section. If you do let the plant self-seed, some very interesting forms can occur.

They are for me the perfect plant in the shade garden. Just like the ideal dinner guest who can be placed anywhere at your table and make all of those seated close comfortable and happy, so too the pulmonaria can complement all neighboring plant life without compromising its own special qualities. Astilbe, hosta, heuchera and ferns pair happily with pulmonaria, and their beauty is enhanced not diminished by the match.

There are many species to choose from, and selection can be a result of your preference for flower color and leaf variations. Some of the fine cultivars are the following: Pulmonaria Rubra David Ward, a striking plant with variegated unspotted leaves and bright coral flowers. Mrs. Moon has spotted silvery foliage topped by pink flowers that mature to blue. Bertram Anderson has green-spotted foliage bearing intensely blue flowers. Pulmonaria Majeste has solid silver leaves with blue and pink flowers. The best choice is planting not one but several varieties for impact throughout the shade garden.

Keep in mind that well-drained, well-amended soil as well as ample water is necessary for success. The mounds remain semi-evergreen through many frosts. In early spring, the new leaves appear heralding the last of snow and the flowers quickly follow. These are long-lived perennials that will be a mainstay in your landscape.

Check out www.bluestoneperennials.com, 1-800-852-5243 and www.rarefindnursery.com, 1-732-833-0613.

(Susan Silverman, a master gardener from Murrysville, Pa., was a co-winner, large garden category, of the 2006 Great Gardens contest.)

(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.shns.com.)